The coloured area of the coin features motifs from tatau (tattoo), which is a symbol of strength in Samoan culture. The formal layout of a matai (chief) meeting in a Samoan fale (house) is represented on the left of the coin. ‘Ie toga (a traditional Samoan fine woven mat) represents the binding of families together and is incorporated on the right-hand side of the coin as well as around the rim. The tone of the coloured area references the natural colouration of the endemic hardwood tree ifilele (Intsia Bijuga), which is used to create the form of the 'ava (kava) bowl.
The engraved area of the coin is designed in the shape of a pua (frangipani flower). Three of the petals portray important architectural structures including the Maota Fa’amasino (the 110-year-old Courthouse in Apia), the Mulivai Catholic Cathedral and the Samoan Maota Fono (the original Samoan Parliament House). The fourth petal features a coconut tree or niu, which is representative of the importance of agriculture to Samoa’s economy.
The centre of the coin features a taupou (young female) and two manaia (young males) wearing tuiga (headdresses) at an ‘ava ceremony. A taupou is the daughter of a matai and a manaia is the son of a matai.